The idiom “speak of the Devil” refers to the sudden appearance of the subject being discussed. It originates from ancient folklore about Satan’s name not being spoken aloud. The phrase is now used flippantly and can signal the end of a gossip session. When used correctly, it shouldn’t make the subject feel unwelcome.
The idiom to speak of the Devil generally refers to the sudden and presumably unexpected appearance of the subject of discussion. If two colleagues are discussing the need for a meeting with their boss and the boss suddenly appears, this phrase could be said. Other encounters with the topic of discussion may not be as lucky or welcome.
The basic premise of the idiom can be traced back to ancient folklore concerning the true identity of Satan, or the Devil. Many cultures believed that the devil’s true name should never be spoken aloud, since he or one of his imps was expected to hear and punish the speaker. Therefore, a number of nicknames and allusions to Satan have appeared over the centuries, including “Old Scratch”, “Prince of Darkness” and “The Evil One”. Mentioning Satan’s real name in conversation was considered an invitation to evil spirits.
Some believe the whole idiom is “Speak of the devil and he will appear” or “Speak of the devil and his imps will appear.” An old English proverb suggested that speaking of the Devil would bring him to your side. There is some evidence that the original idiom was closer to “Speak of the devil and he will appear,” which may be a warning against having entire conversations about the Evil One.
Over the years, the spiritual significance of the idiom has largely faded away. The phrase is often delivered flippantly when the topic of conversation makes an unexpected appearance. There is rarely any intentional malice, just an acknowledgment of the person who was truly being discussed. Sometimes both parties understand that such a surprise appearance isn’t out of the realm of possibility. It happened that the moment of the conversation coincided with the appearance of the person being discussed.
Sometimes, the phrase is used as a social code to end a gossip session or critical discussion. If two colleagues are discussing a tyrannical boss at a company party, for example, one might spot the employer in question and quietly say “speak of the devil” as a signal to end the splenic outburst and change the subject.
It’s important to use this idiom judiciously, because it acknowledges the fact that a third party has actually been the subject of a conversation, good or bad. When used correctly, the subject of discussion shouldn’t feel unwelcome to the conversation. The phrase is generally used as a lighthearted acknowledgment of a chance appearance, nothing more.
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